Late spring and early summer tend to be the peak moving season. These times are easier for families because of the end of the school year. Moving during the peak moving season can result in higher costs and lower availability, especially with long-distance movers. When possible, moving during the off-season can make your move cheaper.
Colonial Van Lines
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Safeway Moving
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American Van Lines
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Key Takeaways
- Summer is the peak moving season primarily because of kids being out of school, as well as warmer, more predictable weather.
- Moving during the peak season can result in 20%-30% higher costs than moving during the off-season, due to increased demand and lower availability for movers.
- To save money, try to move during the middle of the week instead of on the weekend. We’ve found that Tuesday and Wednesday are best. January and February tend to have the cheapest moving rates overall.
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When Is Peak Moving Season?
Peak moving season runs from May through September (essentially late spring through the end of summer). The peak season affects all types of moves, from DIY truck rentals and moving containers to hiring full-service movers, resulting in higher prices across the board.
If you have to move during peak moving season, here’s a breakdown of the industry’s busiest months:
| Month | Demand | Why It’s Busy |
|---|---|---|
| May | Very High | Memorial Day holiday • Start of seasonal moves |
| June | Peak | End of school year • Peak homebuying season |
| July | Peak | Summer break • Fourth of July |
| August | Peak | End of summer vacation • Back-to-school moves |
| September | Moderate | Labor Day weekend • Cooler weather |
Why So Many People Move in the Summer
- School is out: This is less disruptive for kids’ learning and school-related activities, while many college students return home at the start of the summer and head back to school at the end of the summer
- Warmer weather: More predictable weather can makes easier and more comfortable to move, while winter’s snow and ice can create road hazards while driving
- Housing market peaks: Home buying peaks in June, with the late spring and all of summer being the busiest times for the housing market
Peak Moving Season vs. Off-Season Pricing
| Move Type | Avg. Off-Season Cost | Avg. Peak Season Cost | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-service (local) | $1,400-$2,800 | $1,700-$3,800 | 20%-30% |
| Full-service (long-distance) | $3,200-$7,000 | $4,300-$9,500+ | 33%-36% |
| Moving container | $3,000-$4,600 | $4,000-$6,000 | 30%-33% |
| Truck rental | $20-$100 per day | $40-$150 per day | 33%-100% |
Other Peak-Season Impacts
- Less availability from moving companies: Higher demand means moving companies’ schedules tend to be filled well in advance. You’ll need to book services six to eight weeks early to get your preferred dates.
- Tighter pickup/delivery windows: With extra moves on the schedule, moving companies may have narrower pickup and delivery windows for your move.
- Potential delays: If there is a delay with another move, it can have a ripple effect that delays your move, since all of the company’s crews are already busy.
- Increased risk for scams: As legitimate movers get overbooked, scammers try to take advantage with claims of low rates and high availability.
- Heat: Heat can become a real health risk. Try to stay cool and hydrated, and schedule your move for the morning if possible.
The Best Time To Move
If possible, timing your move strategically can make a noticeable difference in both cost and stress. While the season you move in plays a big role in pricing and availability, it’s only part of the equation.
Drilling down further to specific months, weeks, and even days can help you find cheaper rates and better scheduling options.
Some months are easier (and cheaper) to move than others:
- April: The weather is usually mild enough to avoid winter-related delays
- October: Peak season has ended, movers have more availability, and you’re less likely to compete with families on school-based timelines
- January and February: These months typically have the lowest rates overall, though weather conditions can be unpredictable in colder regions
Timing your move within the month can also affect pricing and availability:
- Mid-month: Demand is usually lower because most leases end at the beginning or end of the month
- Avoid month-end: The last few days of the month tend to be the busiest and most expensive due to overlapping lease deadlines
The day of the week you choose can make a surprising difference:
- Tuesday and Wednesday: These are often the cheapest days to move since demand is lower and crews are more readily available
- Monday–Thursday: Weekdays generally offer better pricing than weekends and more scheduling flexibility
- Saturday: The most convenient option for many people is also the most in-demand and expensive day
When Is Paying Peak Moving Season Pricing Worth It?
- When you have kids in school. Moving during the summer ensures you won’t impact your kids’ education or school schedule.
- When you have a specific start date for a new job. Make sure you can move into your new place and have time to unpack.
- If you live in an area with harsh winters. In the northern part of the U.S., winter frequently brings heavy snows and other weather hazards.
- You’re a seasonal worker or college student. Moving during peak season is a necessity when seasonal jobs or the college semester starts and ends.
How To Save Money During Peak Season
- DIY as much as possible. Even if you don’t go for a full DIY move, packing everything yourself or only hiring movers to transport heavy and fragile items can help you save on your move.
- Downsize ahead of your move date. Reduce the total weight and volume of your move, which directly impacts moving costs.
- Look for free or cheap packing supplies. Ask neighbors or check local Nextdoor or Facebook groups for anyone giving away leftover boxes and other moving supplies. Use suitcases and laundry baskets to pack clothes. Use blankets and towels to wrap fragile items.
- Book early. Try to book moving services at least six to eight weeks in advance.
- Be flexible. Even during peak moving season, scheduling your move during the middle of the week can help you get lower rates.
- Avoid holidays. Moving can get even more expensive around summer holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
Pro Tip: Use our cheapest moving companies guide and moving cost calculator to get at least three quotes from reputable movers to find great pricing and reliable service.
FAQ
Do peak-season moving prices vary by state?
Peak-season moving prices will vary by state based on local demand and availability. Prices tend to go up more in highly populated areas where a higher number of moves are taking place.
Why are deposits higher during peak season?
Moving deposits are often higher during peak season because of the higher demand and lower supply for moving services.
Is it cheaper to move in the morning or afternoon?
It’s usually cheaper to move during the afternoon. There is more demand to move in the morning when the weather is cooler and there is less traffic.
Does peak moving season affect the availability of specialty movers for items like pianos or antiques?
Peak moving season can greatly reduce the availability of specialty movers for items like pianos and antiques. Because of this, you may need to book specialty moving services two to four months in advance to ensure you’ll get the help you need.
How can I avoid scams during peak moving season?
To avoid moving scams during the peak moving season, always verify a moving company’s licensing information and get multiple quotes from reputable movers to compare prices. Watch out for red flags like “too good to be true” pricing, vague contracts, high-pressure sales tactics, and demands for full pre-payment.
Can booking with a broker vs. a carrier reduce peak-season pricing challenges?
You may be able to get a lower price by using a broker, but we do not recommend going through brokers. When comparing moving brokers and carriers, brokers offer less consistent service and are more likely to have miscommunications and other problems with their moving partners. There is also a bigger risk of moving scams when using a broker. Carriers have better communication and accountability because the same people who book your move are also responsible for transporting your stuff.
How early should I book movers during peak season?
You should book movers at least six to eight weeks in advance during the peak moving season. If you have specialty needs, like transporting a piano or antique, you may need to book movers two to four months ahead of time.
